Retractable steering column assembly and method

Abstract

A selectively autonomous steering column assembly includes a steering column shaft. Also included is a steering input device coupled to the steering column shaft. Further included is a column adjustment assembly configured to translate the steering column shaft between a retracted position and a driving position. Yet further included is at least one signal indicating when the steering column shaft is in the driving position. When steering column shaft is in the retracted position, directional control is automated, and when the steering column shaft is returned to the driving position as indicated by the at least one signal, direction control via the steering input device is enabled.

Having thus described the invention, it is claimed: 
     
       1. A selectively autonomous steering column assembly comprising:
 a steering column shaft; 
 a steering input device coupled to the steering column shaft; 
 a column adjustment assembly configured to translate the steering column shaft between a retracted position and a driving position; and 
 at least one signal generating sensor mounted on the steering column shaft, the at least one signal generating sensor indicating when the steering column shaft is in the driving position; 
 directional control being automated when the steering column shaft is in the retracted position, and when the steering column shaft is returned to the driving position as indicated by the at least one signal, direction control via the steering input device is enabled. 
 
     
     
       2. The steering column assembly of  claim 1 , further comprising at least one sensor configured to monitor at least one of driver compartment conditions, a driver's condition, a vehicle environment, and a vehicle control system. 
     
     
       3. A selectively autonomous vehicle comprising:
 a steering column shaft; 
 a steering input device coupled to the steering column shaft; 
 a column adjustment assembly configured to translate the steering column shaft between a retracted position and a driving position; and 
 at least one signal generating sensor located adjacent the steering column shaft to detect a position of the steering column shaft, the at least one signal generating sensor indicating when the steering column shaft is in the driving position; 
 directional control being automated when the steering column shaft is in the retracted position and when the steering column shaft is returned to the driving position as indicated by the at least one signal, direction control via the steering input device is enabled. 
 
     
     
       4. The vehicle of  claim 3 , further comprising an autonomous driving assisted steering system having a controller, the controller configured to receive the at least one signal. 
     
     
       5. The vehicle of  claim 3 , further comprising an instrument panel including at least one receiving compartment configured to receive at least a portion of the steering column assembly when the steering column assembly is in the retracted position.